Walmart Gives $140,000 to Nine Nonprofits on the Eighth Day of Holiday Facebook Campaign

Company funds organizations in California, Delaware, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, Texas and Washington

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Dec. 19, 2011 – On the eighth day of its “12 Days of Giving” Facebook campaign, Walmart is awarding $140,000 to nine nonprofits aiding veterans, active members of the military and their families. Over twelve consecutive days, Walmart will award a total of $1.5 million to 145 organizations in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.

“As we give back this holiday season, it is important to remember those who have sacrificed so much for us,” said Julie Gehrki, senior director at the Walmart Foundation. “We are proud to support organizations that are caring for our wounded warriors, our veterans who have returned home and the families that may be separated from their loved ones this holiday season.”

Walmart’s call for nominations for its "12 Days of Giving" Facebook campaign resulted in more than 5,400 nominations from Facebook users who shared photos and short descriptions of a nonprofit’s impact in its local community. A panel from the Walmart Foundation reviewed submissions and selected nonprofits with a focus on organizations that are providing basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing and baby supplies.

The eighth day of giving highlights organizations that assist veterans, active members of the military and their families by providing financial services, emotional support, shelters, food, clothing and other necessities. The organizations being spotlighted today include:

Including this campaign, the Walmart Foundation is providing more than $19 million in grants this holiday season. Click here for a complete list of recipient organizations.

# # #

About Philanthropy at Walmart Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support initiatives that are helping people live better around the globe. In May 2010, Walmart and its Foundation made a historic pledge of $2 billion through 2015 to fight hunger in the U.S. The Walmart Foundation also supports education, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness initiatives. To learn more, visit www.walmartfoundation.org.